Exploring the Mediating Role of Self-Esteem in the Relationship Between Recreation Activities and Quality of Life Among Youth with Visual Impairment

The objective of this study was to explore the mediating role of self-esteem in the correlation between participation in recreational activities and quality of life among youth with visual impairments (VI). This research is particularly significant given the unique challenges faced by youth with VI, who often experience limitations in their social interactions and opportunities for engaging in recreational pursuits. A sample of 50 participants was selected from Institutes of Light and various schools catering to students with VI in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. To gather relevant data, I utilized a comprehensive approach, incorporating the Two-Dimensional Self-Esteem Scale, the KIDSCREEN 27 questionnaire, and the Perceived Freedom in Free Time Scale. The findings revealed significant and positive associations among self-esteem, participation in recreational activities, and overall quality of life. Specifically, engagement in recreational activities was positively correlated with enhanced self-esteem and improved quality of life among the participants. This suggests that recreational activities not only provide enjoyment but also play a vital role in personal development and emotional well-being. Moreover, the analysis demonstrated that self-esteem emerged as a crucial factor in enhancing the quality of life for youth with VI. Importantly, self-esteem was identified as a mediating variable in the relationship between recreational activities and quality of life, indicating that the benefits of engaging in such activities can be partly attributed to their impact on self-esteem. This study emphasizes the importance of fostering recreational opportunities for youth with visual impairments, as these activities contribute significantly to their self-worth and overall life satisfaction. The results underline the need for targeted programs that encourage participation in recreational activities, ultimately helping to improve the quality of life and emotional health for this vulnerable population.